Northern Kentucky University Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Northern Kentucky University has 5 executives leading key functions including institutional strategy, information technology, student leadership, and academic administration.

Committed to academic excellence and regional accessibility, Northern Kentucky University empowers diverse learners through innovative degree programs and robust athletic initiatives while fostering a culture of lifelong intellectual growth.

Leadership Roles at Northern Kentucky University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Ban Mittal
  • President of Tri Beta - Mu Iota Chapter - Dylan Mull
  • President - Gerard St. Amand
  • President - Cady Short-Thompson
  • Chief Information Officer - Timothy Ferguson
  • Ban Mittal - Chief Executive Officer

    Ban Mittal, the Chief Executive Officer at Northern Kentucky University, directs the overarching strategic vision for the institution. Overseeing long-term institutional planning, the Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment between academic offerings and regional workforce demands. This leadership role involves managing complex budgetary frameworks to support 89 bachelor's degrees and 32 graduate programs. By optimizing resource allocation across seven academic colleges, Ban Mittal directly impacts the university's ability to provide high-value education to undergraduate and adult learners. The Chief Executive Officer maintains rigorous standards for institutional performance while driving initiatives that enhance the student experience. Through collaboration with the Board and academic leadership, Mittal secures the financial and operational stability necessary for sustained growth. This executive oversight ensures the university remains a competitive force in higher education, consistently delivering quality outcomes for students across the Kentucky region and beyond.

    Dylan Mull - President of Tri Beta - Mu Iota Chapter

    Dylan Mull, the President of Tri Beta - Mu Iota Chapter at Northern Kentucky University, directs student-led initiatives within the biological sciences department. Overseeing chapter activities, the President of Tri Beta - Mu Iota Chapter ensures active participation in research and academic development programs. This leadership role involves coordinating peer-mentorship opportunities and fostering collaboration among students interested in biological research. By organizing professional development workshops, Dylan Mull directly impacts the academic trajectory of members preparing for graduate studies or careers in science. The President of Tri Beta - Mu Iota Chapter facilitates engagement with faculty members to bridge the gap between classroom learning and practical application. Through consistent outreach and event planning, Mull strengthens the community of scholars within the university. This executive oversight ensures that the chapter remains a vital resource for students seeking to excel in the competitive field of biological sciences.

    Gerard St. Amand - President

    Gerard St. Amand, the President at Northern Kentucky University, drives the institutional mission through focused academic leadership and community engagement. Overseeing the university's core educational mandate, the President ensures the delivery of high-quality instruction across all seven academic colleges. This leadership role involves managing external partnerships and advocating for the institution's value within the broader higher education landscape. By championing initiatives that support student retention and graduation, Gerard St. Amand directly impacts the success of the diverse student body. The President coordinates with administrative leaders to refine academic policies and enhance the overall campus environment. Through strategic oversight of institutional priorities, St. Amand maintains the university's reputation for excellence and accessibility. This executive role requires balancing the needs of undergraduate, graduate, and adult learners while ensuring the institution remains responsive to the evolving requirements of the regional workforce and the broader academic community.

    Cady Short-Thompson - President

    Cady Short-Thompson, the President at Northern Kentucky University, executes the strategic growth plan to expand the university's reach and impact. Overseeing the integration of 23 Division I athletic teams with academic life, the President ensures a holistic student experience that balances competitive sports with rigorous scholarship. This leadership role involves fostering innovation in dual credit programs and expanding access for non-traditional learners. By cultivating relationships with regional stakeholders, Cady Short-Thompson directly impacts the university's ability to serve as a catalyst for economic and social development. The President leads efforts to modernize campus facilities and enhance the quality of student life. Through proactive management of institutional resources, Short-Thompson secures the university's position as a leader in higher education. This executive oversight ensures that the institution continues to provide transformative opportunities for students, maintaining a strong commitment to academic excellence and community service across the region.
    Cady Short-Thompson

    Timothy Ferguson - Chief Information Officer

    Timothy Ferguson, the Chief Information Officer at Northern Kentucky University, architects the digital infrastructure supporting modern academic delivery. Overseeing enterprise-wide technology systems, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless access to online courses and micro-credential platforms for diverse student populations. This leadership role involves securing sensitive data while expanding digital capabilities to accommodate military-affiliated and international students. By implementing scalable cloud solutions, Timothy Ferguson directly impacts the efficiency of administrative and academic operations. The Chief Information Officer manages the integration of advanced learning management systems, facilitating robust virtual engagement across the campus. Through strategic investment in cybersecurity and network reliability, Ferguson maintains the technological foundation required for academic success. This executive oversight ensures that all digital tools remain aligned with the university's mission to provide flexible, high-quality education in an increasingly connected global landscape.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Northern Kentucky University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Northern Kentucky University?
    Northern Kentucky University is led by Ban Mittal (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Dylan Mull (President of Tri Beta - Mu Iota Chapter) and Gerard St. Amand (President).
    Who is part of Northern Kentucky University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Northern Kentucky University includes leaders such as Ban Mittal (Chief Executive Officer), Dylan Mull (President of Tri Beta - Mu Iota Chapter), Gerard St. Amand (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Northern Kentucky University have?
    Northern Kentucky University has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Northern Kentucky University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Northern Kentucky University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President of Tri Beta - Mu Iota Chapter, President, President, Chief Information Officer.